AAA Expects Holiday Travel By 3.5 Million Ohioans

Auto club AAA estimates more than 3.5 million Ohioans will travel at least 50 miles from home during the year-end holiday period running from Saturday through New Year's Day.

That number is up slightly from last year. AAA says travel during this holiday season has increased with economic improvements in recent years. Average gas prices now are expected to remain lower during the holidays than they were a year ago.

Most holiday travelers are expected to be driving instead of flying. State transportation and public safety officials are urging motorists to use extra caution, slow down in wintry conditions and wear seatbelts.

The State Highway Patrol says at least 923 people have died on Ohio roads in 2013. Two dozen more deaths are considered unverified traffic fatalities under review.